15 Designer Bags That Appreciate in Value (and Some That Don’t)

Investing in designer bags can be more than just a fashion statement, as they can also be a smart financial move. Some bags appreciate significantly over the years, while others struggle to maintain their value. Knowing which pieces are most likely to grow in worth is important for both collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike. Many factors, such as scarcity and brand prestige, influence a bag’s resale potential. 

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Bags That Appreciate in Value – Chanel Classic Flap Bag

The Chanel Classic Flap Bag is a timeless piece that has long been a staple in the luxury fashion world. This bag is known for its quilted leather design and iconic gold chain, making it a favorite among collectors. Over the years, it has consistently appreciated in value due to its scarcity and the brand’s enduring reputation. Bags in good condition, especially vintage models, can fetch significant prices in the resale market.

The value of the Chanel Classic Flap Bag is driven by its demand and limited production, as Chanel often increases prices regularly. This makes the bag a solid investment for those looking to buy something that will hold its value. Vintage and well-preserved bags are especially desirable, often fetching even higher resale prices.

Louis Vuitton Speedy 25

Louis Vuitton’s Speedy 25 has been a beloved bag since its debut in 1930. Known for its durability and practical size, this bag has become a symbol of luxury and everyday elegance. The monogram canvas version is especially popular, with many buyers looking for both new and vintage options. As a result, it consistently holds or increases in value over time.

The Speedy 25’s classic design and association with Louis Vuitton’s heritage help to maintain its value. Vintage models in pristine condition, especially those with rare features or from discontinued lines, tend to attract the highest prices. Additionally, Louis Vuitton’s limited edition releases further boost its market value.

Hermès Birkin Bag

The Hermès Birkin Bag is one of the most sought-after designer bags in the world, known for its exclusivity and luxurious craftsmanship. Its price has steadily increased over the years, making it one of the best investment bags available. The high demand combined with limited production ensures that this iconic bag appreciates in value. Some Birkins have even been sold for millions at auction, particularly rare versions with exotic leathers or special features.

The Birkin’s desirability is tied to Hermès’ strict production control and the bag’s scarcity. Popular colors and leathers, such as the classic black or limited-edition crocodile versions, fetch higher resale prices. As a result, the Birkin is considered both a status symbol and a long-term investment. It remains one of the most valuable bags on the resale market, making it a top choice for investors.

Gucci Jackie 1961

The Gucci Jackie 1961 bag is a modern reissue of a classic that was first introduced in the 1960s. With its elegant curved shape and the signature Gucci piston lock, it combines timeless design with a contemporary feel. Due to its resurgence in popularity, especially after being worn by various celebrities, the Jackie 1961 has seen a rise in value.

This bag has become a symbol of understated luxury, with many collectors seeking out vintage pieces for their enduring appeal. As a result, the Gucci Jackie 1961 has become a highly collectible item, and its resale value has steadily increased. The bag’s timeless design and connection to Gucci’s rich history make it a wise investment. Those who own rare or limited-edition versions can expect their bags to appreciate over time.

Céline Luggage Tote

The Céline Luggage Tote has become one of the most coveted handbags of the last two decades. Its sleek, structured design and the distinctive front flap make it instantly recognizable, a favorite among fashion-conscious individuals. The bag’s enduring popularity has helped it appreciate in value, particularly models in classic colors or special editions.

As Céline’s reputation for minimalist luxury continues to grow, the Luggage Tote remains a sought-after item. The bag’s size and practicality, paired with the brand’s carefully controlled production, ensure that it retains its value. Vintage models in pristine condition or those with rare finishes fetch higher prices in the resale market.

Prada Galleria Bag

The Prada Galleria Bag is a staple of the brand, known for its polished design and spacious interior. Its refined silhouette makes it a versatile accessory for both work and leisure, contributing to its lasting popularity. As the Galleria continues to be a bestseller for Prada, it has seen steady growth in resale value. Classic colors, such as black and beige, maintain a high demand in the second-hand market.

The bag’s leather construction and attention to detail make it a durable investment piece. Prada’s consistent brand strength helps to sustain the Galleria’s value, and bags in pristine condition or from limited collections are especially sought after. Resale prices are influenced by its timeless design and the brand’s prestige. The Prada Galleria Bag remains a prime choice for those looking to buy a designer bag with long-term value.

Fendi Peekaboo Bag

The Fendi Peekaboo Bag has become one of the brand’s most iconic pieces, known for its dual compartment design and luxurious materials. Its stylish yet functional structure, combined with the brand’s reputation for quality, has led to the bag’s growing value. The Peekaboo is available in various sizes and materials, making it a favorite among collectors. Some limited-edition versions or bags in rare colors can fetch higher prices on the resale market.

The bag’s versatility and timeless design ensure that it remains highly desirable. Fendi’s control over production helps maintain the bag’s exclusivity, and vintage models are especially valued for their unique characteristics. The Peekaboo’s ability to hold or increase its value over time makes it an excellent investment. Collectors who own well-preserved versions of the bag can expect to see a return on their investment.

Louis Vuitton Neverfull

The Louis Vuitton Neverfull bag has become one of the most popular and versatile bags in the world. Its spacious design and durability make it a favorite for everyday use, while its iconic monogram print ensures its place as a luxury accessory. Due to its high demand and the brand’s strict production control, the Neverfull has seen steady growth in value over the years.

While it is one of Louis Vuitton’s more accessible bags, the Neverfull’s value appreciates due to its popularity and iconic status. Limited edition versions, as well as bags in pristine condition, often fetch higher resale prices. The Neverfull continues to be a favorite among collectors and casual buyers alike. Its value remains strong, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a bag that is both functional and a good investment.

Chanel Boy Bag

The Chanel Boy Bag has become one of the brand’s most desirable pieces since its introduction in 2011. With its boxy shape and chain strap, it offers a modern take on the classic Chanel style. The Boy Bag’s bold design, paired with Chanel’s enduring legacy, has made it a favorite among collectors.

Chanel’s careful production and the Boy Bag’s unique design ensure that it maintains its value over time. The bag’s ability to adapt to modern trends while staying true to Chanel’s luxury aesthetic has led to its steady rise in resale prices. Condition plays a major role in determining the bag’s value, with well-preserved versions commanding higher prices. The Chanel Boy Bag remains a favorite among collectors looking for both style and investment potential.

Hermès Kelly Bag

The Hermès Kelly Bag is another iconic piece from the luxury brand, known for its structured design and elegant silhouette. Named after Grace Kelly, this bag has long been associated with sophistication and timeless luxury. As with the Birkin, the Kelly’s value has steadily appreciated over the years, driven by its rarity and connection to the brand’s heritage. Vintage models, especially those in rare leathers or colors, are highly sought after.

The Kelly Bag’s classic design and connection to high society have helped it retain its value. Due to its limited production and high demand, it has become one of the most coveted bags in the luxury market. Condition is crucial in determining the Kelly’s resale price, with well-preserved bags commanding top dollar.

Bags That Lose Value – Coach Signature Tote

Coach’s Signature Tote, while stylish and affordable, does not see the same appreciation as some other designer bags. The bag’s mass production and the availability of many similar designs have kept its resale value relatively low. Although Coach has an established name in the fashion industry, its bags, especially those in the Signature line, do not tend to appreciate over time. 

The Signature Tote is a great option for those seeking a quality, everyday bag, but it is not likely to increase in value as other luxury bags do. While Coach has raised its brand status with high-end collections, the Signature Tote has not followed suit. Bags in this category may hold their value for a while but will not offer significant returns for collectors. As such, the Signature Tote is better suited for personal use rather than as an investment.

Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Tote

The Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Tote is another bag that does not appreciate in value. While popular for its practicality and stylish design, it is often mass-produced, which limits its long-term investment potential. The high availability of this tote, combined with frequent sales, means it does not experience the same resale value as other luxury brands. Though it remains a fashionable option for many, it lacks the exclusivity that drives up value in the resale market.

The tote is a reliable choice for those looking for an everyday bag, but it does not carry the same investment appeal. With a lower price point and frequent availability, it is more accessible than other designer bags that typically appreciate in value. The Jet Set Travel Tote’s value remains stable, but it is unlikely to see significant growth in the secondary market.

Kate Spade Sam Bag

Kate Spade’s Sam Bag, while beloved for its fun, playful design, does not appreciate in value. The bag is produced in high quantities, which makes it less exclusive compared to other luxury pieces. Kate Spade’s products are often sold at outlets and are frequently on sale, which impacts their resale value.

Though Kate Spade is a respected brand, its mass-market approach means that items like the Sam Bag do not hold the same long-term investment potential. The bag is affordable, but its resale price remains relatively low due to its wide availability and frequent discounts. For those seeking a bag that will appreciate, the Sam Bag may not be the best choice. The bag is ideal for day-to-day use but not as a collector’s item.

Tory Burch Robinson Tote

The Tory Burch Robinson Tote is a versatile and stylish option, but it does not see significant appreciation in value. Despite its sleek design, the Robinson Tote is frequently mass-produced, which reduces its rarity. The availability of similar styles across many retailers means that this bag does not enjoy the exclusivity that drives up prices in the resale market. While it remains a popular choice for buyers, its resale value does not rise significantly.

The Robinson Tote’s popularity stems from its affordability and timeless design, but these factors also contribute to its limited investment potential. Though it holds up well as a durable and fashionable tote, it does not stand out in the secondary market. Its availability and lack of rarity make it less desirable for collectors looking for high-value items.

Fossil Sydney Satchel

The Fossil Sydney Satchel is another bag that does not appreciate over time. Fossil is known for creating well-made, affordable bags, but these pieces typically do not experience significant growth in resale value. The Sydney Satchel, while a functional and stylish bag, is produced in large quantities, reducing its exclusivity.

Although the Sydney Satchel is a great bag for daily use, it lacks the factors that drive up the value of high-end designer bags. Fossil’s accessibility and lower price point mean that it does not command the same demand in the resale market. While the bag is durable and versatile, it is unlikely to provide a significant return on investment in the future. Those looking for a bag with better potential for value appreciation should consider other options.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.